U.S. patent application number 13/970440 was filed with the patent office on 2015-02-19 for beverage dispensing and pressurizer system.
The applicant listed for this patent is Wai T. Lam, Wayne Lam, Jonathan A. Tyler. Invention is credited to Wai T. Lam, Wayne Lam, Jonathan A. Tyler.
Application Number | 20150048098 13/970440 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 52466089 |
Filed Date | 2015-02-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150048098 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Lam; Wai T. ; et
al. |
February 19, 2015 |
BEVERAGE DISPENSING AND PRESSURIZER SYSTEM
Abstract
An apparatus comprises an inflatable object adapted to be
inserted into a beverage container, and a mechanism adapted to
inject air into the inflatable object in response to a decrease in
pressure within the beverage container. The beverage container may
hold a carbonated beverage, for example. In one embodiment, the
mechanism is adapted to maintain an equilibrium between a first
partial pressure within the carbonated beverage and a second
partial pressure of an air pocket within the beverage container. In
one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a cap adapted to fit onto
the beverage container, wherein the inflatable object is coupled to
the cap. The cap may comprise a tube connecting the cap and the
inflatable object, wherein the tube comprises a channel adapted to
transmit air to the inflatable object.
Inventors: |
Lam; Wai T.; (Jericho,
NY) ; Lam; Wayne; (Jericho, NY) ; Tyler;
Jonathan A.; (Yorktown Heights, NY) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Lam; Wai T.
Lam; Wayne
Tyler; Jonathan A. |
Jericho
Jericho
Yorktown Heights |
NY
NY
NY |
US
US
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
52466089 |
Appl. No.: |
13/970440 |
Filed: |
August 19, 2013 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
220/722 ;
222/146.6; 222/181.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B67D 2001/0814 20130101;
B67D 1/0462 20130101; B67D 1/045 20130101; B65D 81/24 20130101;
B67D 3/0035 20130101; B67D 2001/082 20130101; B67D 2210/00031
20130101; B67D 1/0437 20130101; B67D 1/0861 20130101; B67D 1/0831
20130101; F16L 29/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
220/722 ;
222/146.6; 222/181.1 |
International
Class: |
B65D 81/24 20060101
B65D081/24; B67D 3/00 20060101 B67D003/00 |
Claims
1. An apparatus comprising: an inflatable object adapted to be
inserted into a beverage container; and a mechanism adapted to
inject air into the inflatable object in response to a decrease in
air pressure within the beverage container.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the beverage container holds a
carbonated beverage.
3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the mechanism is adapted to
maintain an equilibrium between a first partial pressure within the
carbonated beverage and a second partial pressure of an air pocket
within the beverage container.
4. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a cap adapted to
fit onto the beverage container, wherein the inflatable object is
coupled to the cap.
5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the cap comprises a tube
connecting the cap and the inflatable object, wherein the tube
comprises a channel adapted to transmit air to the inflatable
object.
6. The apparatus of claim 5, further comprising: a compressed air
reservoir coupled to the tube.
7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the inflatable object
comprises a balloon.
8. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a beverage
dispensing mechanism adapted to dispense a beverage from the
beverage container, wherein the decrease in air pressure within the
beverage container occurs in response to dispensing of the
beverage.
9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein a volume of air sufficient to
cause the inflatable object to expand sufficiently to occupy a
volume vacated by the dispensed beverage is injected into the
inflatable object.
10. A system for dispensing a carbonated beverage, the system
comprising: a compressed air reservoir adapted to: store
pressurized air at a selected pressure; a dispensing mechanism
adapted to: dispense a carbonated liquid from a container; an
inflatable object adapted fit inside the container; and a channel
connecting the compressed air reservoir and the inflatable object,
the channel adapted to: allow pressurized air to flow from the
compressed air reservoir to the inflatable object; wherein: in
response to a carbonated liquid being dispensed from the container,
pressurized air flows from the compressed air reservoir into the
inflatable object, causing the inflatable object to expand inside
the container.
11. The system of claim 10, wherein the container comprises a
bottle.
12. The system of claim 11, wherein the inflatable object comprises
a balloon.
13. The system of claim 12, wherein the channel comprises at least
one tube.
14. The system of claim 10, further comprising: a cap adapted to
fit onto the bottle, the cap comprising at least one tube adapted
to extend into the container when the cap is fitted onto the
container, wherein the inflatable object is coupled to the at least
one tube, the cap further comprising: a second channel allowing
pressurized air to flow through the cap into the inflatable object
via the at least one tube.
15. The system of claim 13, wherein the cap comprises a twist-on
cap adapted to attach to a two liter soda bottle.
16. The system of claim 10, wherein a quantity of pressurized air
sufficient to cause the inflatable object to expand sufficiently to
occupy a volume vacated by the dispensed carbonated liquid flows
into the inflatable object
17. The system of claim 10, wherein the compressed air reservoir
stores air at a pressure selected to inflate the inflatable object
within the container sufficiently to cause an air pocket within the
container to maintain a substantially constant volume.
18. A connector assembly comprising: an outer casing defining: a
cavity; an inlet; an outlet; a first channel connecting the cavity
and an outlet; and a second channel connecting the cavity and an
inlet; a hollow sliding valve disposed in the cavity, the sliding
valve having a side hole and a top hole, wherein the sliding valve
has a first position and a second position, wherein: the side hole
is aligned with the second channel and a flow of air between the
second channel and the cavity is permitted when the sliding valve
is in the first position; and the side hole is not aligned with the
second channel and the flow of air between the second channel and
the cavity is blocked when the sliding valve is in the second
position; and an engaging mechanism disposed within the cavity, the
engaging mechanism being adapted to receive threads of a beverage
container, wherein: the sliding valve moves from the second
position to the first position in response to a beverage container
being engaged with the engaging mechanism.
19. The connector assembly of claim 18, wherein the first channel
is adapted to dispense beverage from the beverage container when a
beverage container is engaged with the engaging mechanism.
20. The connector assembly of claim 18, wherein the beverage
container is a two liter soda bottle.
21. The connector assembly of claim 18, further comprising a well
disposed in the cavity, wherein: a spring is disposed in the well;
and the sliding valve is disposed in the well and attached to the
spring.
22. A beverage dispensing system comprising: a plurality of bottle
holders adapted to hold a plurality of two liter bottles each
containing a liquid; a cooling system adapted to cool the plurality
of two liter bottles; one or more dispensing mechanisms adapted to
dispense liquid from the plurality of two liter bottles; a
pressurized air reservoir adapted to hold pressurized air; and at
least one connector assembly coupled to the pressurized air
reservoir, the at least one connecting assembly being adapted to:
engage a two liter bottle; allow liquid to be dispensed from the
two liter bottle; and allow pressurized air to flow from the
pressurized air reservoir into the two liter bottle.
23. The beverage dispensing system of claim 22, wherein the cooling
system comprises: a plurality of cooling loops; a plurality of
Peltier plates; a heat sink; and a ventilation fan.
24. The beverage dispensing system of claim 22, further comprising
a stopper cap adapted to be attached to the two liter bottle, the
stopper cap being further adapted to be connected to the at least
one connector assembly.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] This specification relates generally to beverage dispensing
and pressurizing systems and more particularly, to systems for
dispensing and pressurizing carbonated beverages.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Carbonated beverages, also referred to as soft drinks or
sodas, are among the most popular beverages consumed today. A
carbonated beverage contains carbon dioxide dissolved in water.
Typically, a large amount of carbon dioxide is dissolved in the
soft drink to ensure a minimal effervescence when the beverage is
opened or poured into a glass.
[0003] Dispensing a carbonated beverage causes a significant loss
of carbon dioxide. This loss of carbonation occurs in both the
beverage dispensed and in the beverage remaining in the bottle. In
either case, the beverage "goes flat" and the taste is less
appealing to most people.
[0004] Opening a bottle containing a carbonated beverage and
pouring a drink reduces the effervescence of the beverage in two
ways. Opening the bottle releases carbon dioxide which has escaped
from the beverage during storage. In addition, the act of pouring
disturbs the beverage, causing the release of the dissolved carbon
dioxide from both the beverage being dispensed and the beverage
remaining in the bottle. Once carbon dioxide is released, it does
not re-dissolve into the beverage.
[0005] Carbonated beverages are purchased in a variety of sizes.
One popular size is the twelve ounce bottle or can. Another popular
size is the two liter bottle. Use of larger size containers
provides a number of advantages. Larger size containers offer lower
cost per ounce. Larger size containers also consume fewer
resources, and are thus more environmentally friendly. Also,
because the soda is typically poured manually into a cup or glass,
the user may gauge more accurately how much to dispense, thus
resulting in less waste.
[0006] However, larger containers are associated with a number of
problems. A larger container, such as a two-liter bottle, holds a
larger quantity of soda, which is often only partially consumed;
the container is typically then closed and stored, for example in a
refrigerator. However, if the beverage is not consumed immediately,
the carbonated beverage inside the bottle often goes flat after the
bottle in storage (e.g., in the refrigerator). Also, large bottles
are less convenient to handle than smaller containers. In addition,
frequently removing a large beverage container from the
refrigerator consumes electricity.
[0007] Several existing products exist to address some of the
problems discussed above. Some simple dispensers allow soda to be
pushed out of a bottle by the pressure of the carbon dioxide
without opening the cap. This solution can reduce the release of
carbon dioxide within the bottle. However, this solution does not
prevent the release of carbon dioxide indefinitely. After a portion
of the beverage is consumed, a volume of air is created in the
bottle, and all of a portion of the remaining carbon dioxide is
released, causing the beverage to go flat.
[0008] Another existing solution is to use a pressure pumps to pump
air into the bottle each time the beverage is poured. This solution
is cumbersome because pumping is required every time the bottle is
opened. In addition, this solution is not fully effective because
each time the cap is opened, some of the carbon dioxide
escapes.
[0009] Existing solutions do not successfully prevent carbonated
beverages from going flat. Furthermore, existing solutions do not
address other problems, such as inconvenience and environmental
issues (e.g., the need for frequent opening of the
refrigerator).
SUMMARY
[0010] In accordance with an embodiment, an apparatus comprises an
inflatable object adapted to be inserted into a beverage container,
and a mechanism adapted to inject air into the inflatable object in
response to a decrease in pressure within the beverage container,
thereby inflating the inflatable object. The beverage container may
hold a carbonated beverage, for example.
[0011] In one embodiment, the mechanism is adapted to maintain an
equilibrium between a first partial pressure within the carbonated
beverage and a second partial pressure of an air pocket within the
beverage container.
[0012] In another embodiment, the apparatus also comprises a cap
adapted to fit onto the beverage container, wherein the inflatable
object is coupled to the cap. The cap may comprise a tube
connecting the cap and the inflatable object, wherein the tube
comprises a channel adapted to transmit air to the inflatable
object.
[0013] In one embodiment, a volume of air sufficient to cause the
inflatable object to expand sufficiently to occupy a volume vacated
by the dispensed beverage is injected into the inflatable
object.
[0014] In accordance with another embodiment, a system for
dispensing a carbonated beverage is provided. The system includes a
compressed air reservoir adapted to store pressurized air at a
selected pressure, and a dispensing mechanism adapted to dispense a
carbonated liquid from a container. The system also includes an
inflatable object adapted fit inside the container, and a channel
connecting the compressed air reservoir and the inflatable object,
wherein the channel is adapted to allow pressurized air to flow
from the compressed air reservoir to the inflatable object. In
response to a carbonated liquid being dispensed from the container,
pressurized air flows from the compressed air reservoir into the
inflatable object, causing the inflatable object to expand inside
the container.
[0015] In one embodiment, the container comprises a bottle. The
inflatable object may comprise a balloon. The channel may comprise
at least one tube.
[0016] In another embodiment, the system includes a cap adapted to
fit onto the bottle, the cap comprising at least one tube adapted
to extend into the container when the cap is fitted onto the
container, wherein the inflatable object is coupled to the at least
one tube. The cap further comprises a second channel allowing
pressurized air to flow through the cap into the inflatable object
via the at least one tube.
[0017] In another embodiment, the cap comprises a twist-on cap
adapted to attach to a two liter soda bottle. The compressed air
reservoir stores air at a pressure selected to inflate the
inflatable object within the container sufficiently to cause an air
pocket within the container to maintain a substantially constant
volume.
[0018] In accordance with another embodiment, a connector assembly
is provided. The connector assembly comprises an outer casing
defining a cavity, an inlet, an outlet, a first channel connecting
the cavity and an outlet, and a second channel connecting the
cavity and an inlet. The connector assembly also includes a hollow
sliding valve disposed in the cavity, the sliding valve having a
side hole and a top hole, wherein the sliding valve has a first
position and a second position. The side hole is aligned with the
second channel and a flow of air between the second channel and the
cavity is permitted when the sliding valve is in the first
position. The side hole is not aligned with the second channel and
the flow of air between the second channel and the cavity is
blocked when the sliding valve is in the second position. The
connector assembly further comprises an engaging mechanism disposed
within the cavity, the engaging mechanism being adapted to receive
threads of a beverage container. The sliding valve moves from the
second position to the first position in response to a beverage
container being engaged with the engaging mechanism.
[0019] In one embodiment, the first channel is adapted to dispense
beverage from the beverage container when a beverage container is
engaged with the engaging mechanism. The beverage container may be
a two liter soda bottle, for example.
[0020] In another embodiment, the connector assembly further
comprises a well disposed in the cavity, wherein a spring is
disposed in the well, and the sliding valve is disposed in the well
and attached to the spring.
[0021] In accordance with another embodiment, a beverage dispensing
system is provided. The beverage dispensing system includes a
plurality of bottle holders adapted to hold a plurality of two
liter bottles each containing a liquid, a cooling system adapted to
cool the plurality of two liter bottles, and one or more dispensing
mechanisms adapted to dispense liquid from the plurality of two
liter bottles. The system further includes a pressurized air
reservoir adapted to hold pressurized air, and at least one
connector assembly coupled to the pressurized air reservoir, the at
least one connecting assembly being adapted to engage a two liter
bottle, allow liquid to be dispensed from the two liter bottle, and
allow pressurized air to flow from the pressurized air reservoir
into the two liter bottle.
[0022] In one embodiment, the cooling system comprises a plurality
of cooling loops, a plurality of Peltier plates, a heat sink, and a
ventilation fan.
[0023] In another embodiment, the beverage dispensing system
further comprises a stopper cap adapted to be attached to the two
liter bottle, the stopper cap being further adapted to be connected
to the at least one connector assembly.
[0024] These and other advantages of the present disclosure will be
apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art by reference to the
following Detailed Description and the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0025] FIG. 1 shows an external view of a beverage dispensing
system in accordance with an embodiment;
[0026] FIG. 2 shows a cut-away view of the interior of a beverage
dispensing system, in accordance with an embodiment;
[0027] FIG. 3 shows a cut-away view of the interior of a beverage
dispensing system in accordance with an embodiment;
[0028] FIG. 4 shows cooling system of a beverage dispensing system
in accordance with an embodiment;
[0029] FIG. 5 is a top-down view of a cooling loop, a connector, a
cooling plate, and a heat sink in accordance with an
embodiment;
[0030] FIG. 6 shows a cross-section view of certain components of a
beverage dispensing system in accordance with an embodiment;
[0031] FIG. 7 shows a compressed air reservoir in accordance with
an embodiment;
[0032] FIGS. 8A-8C illustrate a user replacing an ordinary cap of a
beverage bottle with a stopper cap in accordance with an
embodiment;
[0033] FIG. 9 shows components of a stopper cap in accordance with
an embodiment;
[0034] FIG. 10 is a top view of a stopper cap in accordance with an
embodiment;
[0035] FIG. 11 shows a stopper cap attached to a bottle in
accordance with an embodiment;
[0036] FIG. 12 shows a bottle with a stopper cap and a connector
assembly in accordance with an embodiment;
[0037] FIG. 13 shows a sliding valve in accordance with an
embodiment;
[0038] FIG. 14 shows a bottle and a stopper cap twisted partially
into a connector assembly in accordance with an embodiment;
[0039] FIG. 15 shows a bottle and a stopper cap twisted partially
into a connector assembly in accordance with an embodiment;
[0040] FIG. 16 shows a bottle and a stopper cap connected to a
connector assembly in accordance with an embodiment;
[0041] FIG. 17 shows a bottle and a stopper cap connected to a
connector assembly in accordance with an embodiment;
[0042] FIG. 18 shows a bottle and a stopper cap connected to a
connector assembly in accordance with an embodiment;
[0043] FIG. 19 shows a bottle and a stopper cap connected to a
connector assembly in accordance with an embodiment;
[0044] FIG. 20 shows a bottle and a stopper cap connected to a
connector assembly in accordance with an embodiment;
[0045] FIG. 21 shows a bottle and a stopper cap connected to a
connector assembly in accordance with an embodiment;
[0046] FIG. 22 shows a bottle and a stopper cap connected to a
connector assembly in accordance with an embodiment; and
[0047] FIG. 23 shows a system for dispensing a carbonated beverage
from a container in accordance with an embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0048] In accordance with an embodiment, an apparatus comprises an
inflatable object adapted to be inserted into a beverage container,
and a mechanism adapted to inject air into the inflatable object in
response to a decrease in pressure within the beverage container,
thereby inflating the inflatable object. The beverage container may
hold a carbonated beverage, for example. The mechanism may be
adapted to maintain an equilibrium between a first partial pressure
within the carbonated beverage and a second partial pressure of an
air pocket within the beverage container. In another embodiment,
the apparatus comprises a cap adapted to fit onto the beverage
container, wherein the inflatable object is coupled to the cap. The
cap may comprise a tube connecting the cap and the inflatable
object, wherein the tube comprises a channel adapted to transmit
air to the inflatable object. In one embodiment, a volume of air
sufficient to cause the inflatable object to expand sufficiently to
occupy a volume vacated by the dispensed beverage is injected into
the inflatable object.
[0049] In accordance with another embodiment, a beverage dispensing
system is provided. The beverage dispensing system comprises a
plurality of bottle holders adapted to hold a plurality of
two-liter bottles each containing a liquid. The beverage dispensing
system also includes a cooling system adapted to cool the plurality
of two-liter bottles, and one or more dispensing mechanisms adapted
to dispense liquid from the plurality of two-liter bottles. The
beverage dispensing system further comprises a pressurized air
reservoir adapted to hold pressurized air, and at least one
connecting assembly coupled to the pressurized air reservoir, the
at least one connecting assembly being adapted to inject
pressurized air into each of the plurality of two-liter
bottles.
[0050] In accordance with another embodiment, a user may replace an
ordinary cap (of a two-liter bottle, for example) with an inventive
stopper cap, and use the stopper cap to connect the bottle to a
connector assembly. The stopper cap and the connector assembly
allow a carbonated beverage to be dispensed from the bottle and
further allow pressurized air to be injected into an inflatable
object within the bottle to control a volume of air within the
bottle. Controlling a volume of air within the bottle may, for
example, prevent carbon dioxide within the beverage from vaporizing
and consequently prevent the beverage from going flat.
[0051] FIG. 1 shows an external view of a beverage dispensing
system in accordance with an embodiment. Beverage dispensing system
100 comprises a container 110, a plurality of dispensing mechanisms
120, a plurality of dispensing handles 125, and a plurality of
displays 140, 141, 142. Beverage dispensing system 100 also
includes a ventilation opening 160 and a pump handle 155.
[0052] FIG. 2 shows a cut-away view of the interior of beverage
dispensing system 100, in accordance with an embodiment. Beverage
dispensing system 100 comprises a bottle holder 230, which
surrounds a portion of the interior of container 110. Bottle holder
230 comprises an insulating material, such as foam, for example.
Bottle holder 230 comprises a plurality of chambers 210 adapted to
hold bottles of a selected size. In the illustrative embodiment,
bottle holder 230 comprises three chambers 210.
[0053] Beverage dispensing system 100 also comprises a compressed
air providing apparatus 240. In the illustrative embodiment,
compressed air providing apparatus 240 comprises a compressed air
reservoir. In other embodiments, compressed air providing apparatus
240 may include any type of apparatus adapted to provide compressed
air, such as an air pump (powered or manual), or other type of
device.
[0054] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, container 110 serves as the
container of various components of beverage system 100, and also
holds beverage bottles. The exterior portion of container 110
includes dispenser mechanisms 120 and dispensing handles 125, which
may be operated by a user.
[0055] Pump handle 155 operates a manually operated pressure pump
(not shown in FIGS. 1 and 2). Pump handle 155 is accessible to a
user from the exterior of container 110.
[0056] Displays 140, 141, 142 are mounted on the exterior of
container 110. In various embodiments, selected parameters relating
to the operational status of beverage dispensing system 100 may be
displayed on the displays. In the illustrative embodiment, displays
140, 141, 142 display, respectively, a power level, one or more
temperature readings (which may include one or more of current
internal temperature, current external temperature, etc.), and a
measure of air pressure within the bottles. In other embodiments,
more or fewer than three displays may be used, and other types of
information may be displayed.
[0057] In the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 2, beverage
dispensing system 100 may hold up to three (3) 2-liter bottles of
selected sodas or other beverages, which may be carbonated or
non-carbonated. FIG. 2 is illustrative only and should not be
construed as limiting. In other embodiments, a beverage dispensing
system may hold more or fewer than three bottles. Also, in other
embodiments, a beverage dispensing system may be adapted to hold
smaller or larger bottles, or other types of beverage
containers.
[0058] Advantageously, beverage dispensing system 100 may hold one
or more large size bottles and allow a user to dispense small
amounts into a cup in an economical and environmentally-friendly
manner.
[0059] FIG. 3 shows a cut-away view of the interior of beverage
dispensing system 100 in accordance with an embodiment. In the
illustrative embodiment of FIG. 3, the exterior of bottle holder
230 is omitted in order to show the contents thereof. Three bottle
cooling loops 305 are attached to a ventilation chamber 380. Each
cooling loop 305 has a diameter sufficient to hold a beverage
bottle of a selected size. In the illustrative embodiment of FIG.
3, each cooling loop 305 holds a two-liter bottle 360. In other
embodiments, a cooling loop 305 may hold a bottle of a different
size. Each bottle 360 is further secured within a respective bottle
connector assembly 335.
[0060] Beverage dispensing system 100 includes a cooling system 400
which cools the beverages stored in bottles 360, and maintains the
coolness of the beverages in the bottles. FIG. 4 shows cooling
system 400 in accordance with an embodiment. Ventilation chamber
380, ventilation opening 160, and cooling loops 305 are components
of cooling system 400. While cooling system 400 includes a
plurality of cooling loops 305, only one cooling loop 305 is shown
in FIG. 4 for convenience. Cooling system 400 further comprises a
heat sink 415, and a ventilation fan 464.
[0061] As shown in FIG. 4, each cooling loop 305 is connected to a
semiconductor cooling plate 418 via a connector 505. Each cooling
plate 418 is attached to, or integrated with, heat sink 415. During
operation, one side of cooling plate 418 remains cool, while the
other side of cooling plate 418 generates heat. Cooling loop 305 is
connected to the cool side of cooling plate 418. The metal area of
cooling loop 305 is thermally conductive and consequently
facilitates a cooling process which cools the beverage through the
surface of the bottle. The warmer side of cooling plate 418 is
connected to heat sink 415. Ventilation fan 464 is arranged to
direct the air flow to remove heat through ventilation opening 160
to the exterior of beverage dispensing system 100. A temperature
sensor (not shown) may be used to control electrical power to
cooling plates 418 and to fan 464. When the beverage in bottles 360
is sufficiently cool, cooling plates 418 are turned off.
[0062] Referring again to FIG. 2, bottle holder 230 (in which the
bottles are held) is insulated to ensure the effectiveness and
efficiency of cooling system 400.
[0063] In one embodiment, a 12VDC power supply (not shown) is used
to power cooling system 400. In another embodiment, direct car
battery input may be used. In another embodiment, a 112VAC
converter may be used.
[0064] FIG. 5 is a top-down view of cooling loop 305, connector
505, cooling plate 418, and heat sink 415 in accordance with an
embodiment. While for illustrative purposes various components are
shown separated in FIG. 5, in operation, cooling loop 305 is
connected to connector 505, connector 505 is connected to cooling
plate 418, and cooling plate 418 is connected to, or integrated
with, heat sink 415. Cooling plate 418 comprises a thermoelectric
cooling mechanism, such as a Peltier plate. To connect cooling loop
305 to cooling plate 418, a connector 505, having a first, flat
side 512 (attached to cooling plate 418) and a second, curved side
514 (to attached to cooling loop 305), is used.
[0065] In one embodiment, cooling loop 305 may comprise aluminum.
Cooling loop 305 fits into chamber 210, and has a diameter
approximately the same as the diameter of chamber 210. Cooling loop
305 may have a width between 1 inches and 3 inches, for
example.
[0066] Connector assembly 335 allows a beverage to flow out from a
bottle and be dispensed via dispensing mechanism 120. Connector
assembly 335 also ensures that a carbonated beverage stored in a
bottle 360 remains pressurized and carbonated, by injecting
compressed air into an inflatable object within the bottle as the
volume of the liquid in the bottle decreases due to its being
dispensed.
[0067] FIG. 6 shows a cross-section view of certain components of
beverage dispensing system 100 in accordance with an embodiment.
Bottle 360 is held by cooling loop 305 within bottle holder 230.
Bottle 360 is connected to connector assembly 335. A tube 1630 is
connected to an outlet 1258 of connector assembly 335. Tube 1630
curves upward in front of bottle holder 230, ending at dispensing
mechanism 120. Dispensing handle 125 is connected to tube 1630.
[0068] Dispensing mechanism 120 allows beverages to be dispensed to
a user in a manner commonly used at soda fountains. Specifically,
dispensing mechanism comprises a valve that may be opened and
closed by moving dispensing handle 125. When dispensing handle 125
is pressed, the valve opens, allowing pressurized beverage liquid
to flow out from bottle 360 to a cup held by the user.
[0069] An inlet 1254 of connector assembly 335 is connected to one
of a plurality of outlets 2045 of compressed air reservoir 240.
Also shown in FIG. 6 is fan 464 and a pressure pump 2070, including
pump handle 155.
[0070] Compressed air reservoir 240 supplies compressed air to
bottles 360 to expand the inflatable object within bottle 360,
thereby occupying the space vacated by any beverage that is
dispensed, consequently maintaining the partial pressure of the
carbon dioxide in the liquid, and the carbon dioxide concentration
in the liquid, as the beverage is dispensed. The pressure provided
by compressed air reservoir 240 also facilitates the flow of the
beverage for dispensing.
[0071] FIG. 7 shows compressed air reservoir 240 in accordance with
an embodiment. Compressed air reservoir 240 is disposed on a base
element 2168 having three outlets 2045. Pump 2070 (shown with pump
handle 155) is connected to the top of reservoir 240 via a tube
2125 and a connecting mechanism 2140.
[0072] In one embodiment, reservoir 240 is a balloon approximately
the size of a two-liter beverage bottle, which can withstand up to
100 psi of compressed air. In other embodiments, reservoir 240 may
have other configurations and other sizes. Pump 2070 pumps air into
reservoir 240. Pump 2070 may be electrical or manually operated. In
one embodiment, reservoir 240 is connected to the dispensing
mechanism 120 via a one-way pressure valve (not shown). The
pressure within reservoir 240 is maintained at a predetermined
level. When the air pressure in bottle 360 is lower than the
pressure of reservoir 240, the compressed air within reservoir 240
is injected into an inflatable object within the bottle, bringing
the pressure of the bottle up to that of the reservoir.
[0073] In one embodiment, when the pressure of reservoir 240 is
below the predetermined level, an alert may be displayed on display
142 (on exterior of beverage dispensing system 100, as shown in
FIG. 1). A user may then employ pump handle 155 and use pump 2070
to increase the air pressure in reservoir 240 to the desired
level.
[0074] In some embodiments, a powered compressed air providing
device may be used to provide compressed air (without a compressed
air reservoir).
[0075] It has been observed that existing products designed to
prevent loss of carbonation within a beverage bottle by injecting
pressurized air into the bottle do not successfully prevent loss of
carbonation. It has been determined that this problem may be
addressed more successfully by controlling the volume of the air in
the bottle (rather than the pressure of the air in the bottle).
Because of the principle of partial pressures, the release of
carbon dioxide from a carbonated beverage is primarily determined
by the differential between the partial pressure of the carbon
dioxide in the beverage and the partial pressure of carbon dioxide
within the air within the bottle. It is therefore desirable to
maintain an equilibrium or a substantial equilibrium between the
partial pressure of the carbon dioxide in the beverage and the
partial pressure of carbon dioxide within the air within the
bottle.
[0076] In accordance with an embodiment, the volume of air within a
bottle containing a carbonated beverage is controlled in order to
maintain a constant or substantially constant volume of the air
within the bottle as the beverage is dispensed. By maintaining a
constant or substantially constant volume of air within the bottle,
a constant or substantially constant partial pressure of carbon
dioxide within the air is maintained, in order to maintain an
equilibrium or substantial equilibrium between the partial pressure
of carbon dioxide in the air within the bottle and the carbon
dioxide within the carbonated beverage. When such an equilibrium is
maintained, little or no release of carbon dioxide from the
carbonated beverage into the air occurs.
[0077] In accordance with an embodiment, an inventive stopper cap
is attached to a bottle containing a carbonated beverage. The
bottle is then connected to connector assembly 335. The stopper cap
is coupled to an inflatable object which fits into the bottle and
expands within the bottle to control the volume of an air pocket
within the bottle.
[0078] Advantageously, connector assembly 335 is configured to
allow a user to connect, and to disconnect, bottles in a simple
manner. In one embodiment, a user connects a beverage bottle, such
as a two-liter bottle of soda, to connector assembly 335 by
removing the ordinary cap that is on the bottle at time of purchase
with an inventive stopper cap adapted to connect easily to
connector assembly 335. The user may do so while the bottle is
placed upright on a countertop, for example.
[0079] In accordance with an embodiment, an inventive stopper cap
is placed on a bottle containing a carbonated beverage. FIGS. 8A-8C
illustrate an embodiment in which a user replaces the ordinary cap
of a beverage bottle with a stopper cap. FIG. 8A shows a beverage
bottle 360 having an ordinary cap 630. For example, cap 630 may be
a twist-off cap of the type commonly used on 2-liter bottles of
soda. Referring to FIG. 8B, a user removes cap 630 and places a
stopper cap 750 onto bottle 360. For example, stopper cap 750 may
be twisted onto bottle 360. FIG. 8C shows bottle 360 with stopper
cap 750 attached in accordance with an embodiment.
[0080] FIG. 9 shows components of stopper cap 750 in accordance
with an embodiment. Stopper cap 750 comprises an outer casing 910
and a stopper 920. A first set of threads 973 are disposed on the
exterior surface of outer casing 910, and a second set of threads
965 are disposed on the interior surface of outer casing 910.
Stopper 920 comprises an opening 922. A hole 924 is disposed at the
interior end of opening 922.
[0081] Stopper cap 750 also comprises a first tube portion 932,
which is attached to stopper 920. First tube portion 932 is
disposed substantially within outer casing 910 and forms an air
channel 945 within stopper cap 750. A spring 912 is disposed inside
stopper cap 750, and is attached to stopper 920 and to a wall 934
at the opposite end of stopper cap 750. Spring 912 may wind around
first tube portion 932, for example. Spring 912 exerts pressure on
stopper 920, holding stopper 920 in a closed position.
[0082] FIG. 10 is a top view of stopper cap 750 in accordance with
an embodiment. Outer casing 910 is configured peripherally around
stopper 920. From the top view shown in FIG. 10, opening 922 is
visible, providing a view of first tube portion 932 and hole 924 at
the interior end of opening 922.
[0083] Returning to FIG. 9, a second tube portion 938 is attached,
at a first end, to first tube portion 932. A second end of second
tube portion 938 comprises a sliding piece 960. For example,
sliding piece 960 may be a cylindrical piece fitted concentrically
around second tube portion 938 and may be adapted to slide along
second tube portion 938. Sliding piece 960 includes an end cap 963
having a hole 964 that allows air to flow into and out of second
tube portion 938. In one embodiment, sliding piece 960 is adapted
to slide up and down the length of second tube portion 938. A
spring 951 exerts a force on sliding piece 960, maintaining sliding
piece 960 in a first position at the end of second tube section
938.
[0084] An inflatable object 980 is attached to sliding piece 960.
In the illustrative embodiment, inflatable object 980 is a balloon.
For example, the mouth of balloon 980 may be fitted and sealed
around sliding piece 960. Balloon 980 may comprise, for example,
rubber or a similar material.
[0085] Second tube portion 938 comprises an air channel 955 through
which air may flow between first tube portion 932 and balloon
980.
[0086] Thus, stopper 920, first tube portion 932 and second tube
portion 938 together form a channel by which air may flow from
outside stopper cap 750 into balloon 980 (and in the opposite
direction). For example, air may flow into opening 922 of stopper
920, through hole 924, into and through first tube portion 932,
through second tube portion 938, and into balloon 980.
[0087] FIG. 11 shows stopper cap 750 attached to bottle 360 in
accordance with an embodiment. Bottle 360 may be a bottle of any
size. In an illustrative embodiment, bottle 360 is a two liter
(2-liter) bottle of soda, or other carbonated beverage. In other
embodiments, bottle 360 is a bottle having another size. In the
example of FIG. 11, bottle 360 is full or nearly full of a soda
1150. Accordingly, soda 1150 reaches nearly to stopper cap 750,
leaving an air pocket 1165 in bottle 360. Under normal conditions,
the air in air pocket 1165 contains an amount of carbon dioxide
that is in equilibrium with the carbon dioxide in soda 1150. While
stopper cap 750 is attached to bottle 360, there is little or no
additional transfer of carbon dioxide from soda 1150 to the air in
air pocket 1165.
[0088] In accordance with an embodiment, after a user attaches
stopper cap 750 to bottle 360, the user turns bottle 360 upside
down and connects the bottle to connector assembly 335. FIG. 12
shows bottle 360 with stopper cap 750 and a cross-section of
connector assembly 335 in accordance with an embodiment.
[0089] Connector assembly 335 comprises an outer casing 1210, which
comprises a cavity 1202. Grooves 1215 are disposed on the sides of
cavity 1202. Casing 1210 also includes an inlet 1254, an input
channel 1244, an output channel 1248, and an outlet 1258. Connector
assembly 335 also includes a wall 1231, which may in some
embodiments be joined to casing 1210. A sliding valve 1220 is
disposed within a well formed between wall 1231 and casing 1210.
Sliding valve 1220 is supported by a spring 1235 and may
accordingly move up and down as spring 1235 extends and
contracts.
[0090] FIG. 13 shows sliding valve 1220 in accordance with an
embodiment. Sliding valve 1220 comprises a cylindrical tube 1305
and an end 1310. Cylindrical tube 1305 is hollow or substantially
hollow. End 1310 comprises an end hole 1315 having a diameter
smaller than the diameter of tube 1305. End hole 1222 allows air to
flow into and out of tube 1305. Sliding valve 1220 also includes a
side hole 1222 on a side of tube 1305. Side hole 1222 allows air to
flow into and out of tube 1305.
[0091] Returning to FIG. 12, when spring 1235 is extended, sliding
valve 1220 is in a first position in which side hole 1222 is not
aligned with input channel 1244. When sliding valve 1220 is in the
first position, as shown in FIG. 12, no air can flow from input
channel 1244 into valve 1220.
[0092] In the illustration of FIG. 12, bottle 360 and stopper cap
750 are positioned above connector assembly 335 and are not yet
engaged with connector assembly 335. In the illustrative
embodiment, stopper cap 750 may be engaged with connector assembly
335 by lowering stopper cap 750 into cavity 1202 and twisting
stopper cap 750 so that threads 973 (on stopper cap 750) engage
grooves 1215 (in cavity 1202 of connector assembly 335). FIG. 14
shows bottle 360 and stopper cap 750 after the user has twisted
stopper cap 750 partially into connector assembly 335, in
accordance with an embodiment.
[0093] Specifically, in the example of FIG. 14, threads 973 have
begun to engage with grooves 1215. As stopper cap 750 descends into
cavity 1202, opening 922 of stopper 920 receives the top end of
sliding valve 1220. In the example of FIG. 14, the top end of
sliding valve 1220 touches (or nearly touches) first tube portion
932.
[0094] FIG. 15 shows bottle 360 and stopper cap 750 after the user
has twisted stopper cap 750 further into connector assembly 335 in
accordance with an embodiment. As the user continues to twist
stopper cap 750, threads 973 engage further with grooves 1215.
Stopper cap 750 descends, and sliding valve 1220 is forced downward
by the inner edge of first tube portion 932 until side hole 1222
(of valve 1220) is aligned with input channel 1244. Stopper 920
descends until it touches wall 1231 and casing 1210.
[0095] Because side hole 1222 is aligned with input channel 1244,
air may now flow through inlet 1254 into input channel 1244, and
through side hole 1222 into sliding valve 1220. The air may further
flow from sliding valve 1220 up into channel 945 of first tube
portion 932, and into air channel 955 of second tube portion
938.
[0096] FIG. 16 shows bottle 360 and stopper cap 750 after the user
has twisted stopper cap 750 further into connector assembly 335 in
accordance with an embodiment. As the user continues to twist
stopper cap 750, outer casing 910 of stopper cap 750 descends
further; however stopper 920 remains in place and does not descend
further as it is blocked by wall 1231 and casing 1210. As a result,
a channel 1605 opens between stopper 920 and outer casing 910.
[0097] In accordance with an embodiment, liquid may flow from
bottle 360 down through channel 1605, and out via output channel
1248 and outlet 1258. As a result, a user may now dispense soda
from bottle 360.
[0098] In accordance with an embodiment, as soda is dispensed from
bottle 360, air flows into balloon 980. In one embodiment, an
amount of air sufficient to occupy the space vacated by the
dispensed soda may be injected into balloon 980, thereby
controlling the volume of air pocket 1165. In another embodiment,
balloon 980 inflates until the air pressure in air pocket 1165 is
equal or substantially equal to the air pressure of compressed air
reservoir 240. The air injected into balloon 980 does not mix with
the air in air pocket 1165. Consequently, balloon 980 inflates
sufficiently to ensure that the volume of air pocket 1165 remains
substantially unchanged. As the volume of the air pocket is
maintained constant or substantially constant, the partial pressure
of carbon dioxide within the air pocket remains unchanged or
substantially unchanged. Therefore, an equilibrium or substantial
equilibrium is maintained between the partial pressure of the
carbon dioxide in the air pocket and the partial pressure of the
carbon dioxide in the carbonated beverage. As a result, little or
no release of carbon dioxide from the soda 1150 into air pocket
1165 occurs, and soda 1150 remains carbonated even as the quantity
of soda within bottle 360 decreases.
[0099] Specifically, in accordance with an embodiment, when the air
pressure in bottle 360 falls below the air pressure in compressed
air reservoir 240, air flows into balloon 980 via inlet 1254, input
channel 1244, side hole 1222, sliding valve 1220, first tube
section 932 and second tube section 938. Accordingly, in response
to the decrease in air pressure within bottle 360, balloon 980
inflates until the air pressure in bottle 360 is equal to the air
pressure of compressed air reservoir 240. As balloon 980 expands,
the volume of air pocket 1165 decreases.
[0100] In one embodiment, the air pressure in compressed air
reservoir 240 is maintained at approximately 30 psi (which is
approximately the air pressure within a newly purchased bottle of
carbonated soda). Consequently, as soda is dispensed from bottle
360, balloon 980 expands to maintain the air pressure in bottle 360
at approximately 30 psi. For example, as beverage is dispensed from
the bottle, a volume of air sufficient to cause balloon 980 to
expand by a volume sufficient to occupy the volume vacated by the
dispensed beverage may flow from compressed air reservoir 240 into
balloon 980. As a result, the volume of air pocket 1165 is
maintained constant or substantially constant, thereby maintaining
a constant or substantially constant partial pressure of carbon
dioxide within air pocket 1165. Therefore, equilibrium or
substantial equilibrium is maintained between the partial pressure
of the carbon dioxide in air pocket 1165 and the partial pressure
of the carbon dioxide in the carbonated beverage. As a result,
little or no release of carbon dioxide from the carbonated beverage
into air pocket 1665 occurs, and the beverage remains
carbonated.
[0101] FIG. 17 shows bottle 360 and stopper cap 750 connected to
connector assembly 335 in accordance with an embodiment. In this
example, soda 1150 nearly fills bottle 360. A relatively small
quantity of air forms an air pocket 1165 within the bottle.
[0102] Supposing that a user dispenses a selected quantity of soda
from bottle 360, the quantity of soda 1150 within bottle 360
decreases as a result. FIG. 18 shows bottle 360 and stopper cap 750
connected to connector assembly 335 in accordance with an
embodiment. In this example, because the user has dispensed soda
from the bottle, the quantity of soda 1150 has decreased compared
to that shown in FIG. 17.
[0103] As the level of soda 1150 decreases, the volume of air
pocket 1165 increases. However, as the volume of air pocket 1165
increases, the air pressure within air pocket 1165 (and within
bottle 360) decreases. When the air pressure within bottle 360
falls below the air pressure of compressed air reservoir 240, air
flows into balloon 980 and balloon 980 expands. As shown in FIG.
18, balloon 980 has expanded (compared to FIG. 17) and fills a
portion of the space above the surface of soda 1150. For example, a
volume of air sufficient to cause balloon 980 to expand by a volume
sufficient to occupy the volume vacated by the dispensed beverage
may flow into balloon 980. As a result, the volume of air pocket
1165 remains substantially unchanged (compared to FIG. 17), and
soda 1150 remains carbonated. When discussed herein, the volume of
air pocket 1165 does not include, and does not mix with, the volume
of air within balloon 980.
[0104] Supposing that a user dispenses additional soda from bottle
360, the quantity of soda 1150 within bottle 360 decreases further
as a result. FIG. 19 shows bottle 360 and stopper cap 750 connected
to connector assembly 335 in accordance with an embodiment. Because
the user has dispensed additional soda from the bottle, the
quantity of soda 1150 has decreased further compared to that shown
in FIG. 18.
[0105] Again, because the level of soda 1150 decreases further, the
volume of air pocket 1165 increases and the air pressure within air
pocket 1165 (and within bottle 360) decreases. When the air
pressure within bottle 360 falls below the air pressure of
compressed air reservoir 240, air flows into balloon 980 and
balloon 980 expands. As shown in FIG. 19, balloon 980 has expanded
further (compared to FIG. 18) and fills a substantial portion of
the space above the surface of soda 1150.
[0106] As balloon 980 expands, balloon 980 exerts a downward force
on sliding piece 960, and pushes sliding piece 960 downward along
second tube section 938. As sliding piece 960 is pushed downward,
spring 951 contracts (increasing the upward force on sliding piece
960), until the forces on sliding piece 960 are in equilibrium.
[0107] Because balloon 980 has expanded to fill a substantial
portion of the space above the surface of soda 1150, the volume of
air pocket 1165 remains substantially unchanged (compared to FIG.
18). Consequently, an equilibrium of the partial pressures of
carbon dioxide is maintained or substantially maintained, and
little or no carbon dioxide is released from soda 1150, and soda
1150 remains carbonated.
[0108] While in the illustrative embodiment, an equilibrium of
partial pressures is substantially maintained, in another
embodiment, balloon 980 may expand to fill a portion of the space
above the surface of soda 1150, thereby reducing the volume of air
pocket 1165; however, the volume of air pocket 1165 may increase
minimally. In this embodiment, because the volume of air pocket
1165 increases, the partial pressure of carbon dioxide in air
pocket 1165 decreases, and some carbon dioxide is released from the
carbonated beverage. However, the release of carbon dioxide is
minimized, and the beverage remains substantially carbonated.
[0109] In an alternative embodiment, beverage dispensing system 100
may include a separate ice chamber with an ice dispenser. In one
embodiment, a user places ice into the chamber to be kept cold. The
ice may then be dispensed from the ice dispenser, for example,
using a manually operated dispenser.
[0110] FIG. 20 shows a bottle and a stopper cap in accordance with
another embodiment. Stopper cap 2020 comprises certain components
that are similar to those described in the embodiment of FIG. 9,
including outer casing 910, a stopper 920, and first tube portion
932. In this embodiment, first tube portion 932 is coupled to a
second tube portion 2032. A balloon 2045 is attached to second tube
portion 2032. Balloon 2045 may be attached in any suitable manner.
For example, balloon 2045 may be attached to a separate cylindrical
piece (not shown) that is twisted onto second tube portion 2032.
Other methods may be used to attach balloon 2045 to second tube
portion 2032.
[0111] In a manner similar to that described above, when beverage
1150 is dispensed from bottle 360, air flows through first tube
portion 932 and second tube portion 2032 and into balloon 2045.
Balloon 2045 accordingly inflates, ensuring that air pocket 1165
maintains a constant or substantially constant volume. FIG. 21
shows bottle 360 and stopper cap 2020 in accordance with an
embodiment. As shown in FIG. 21, a portion of beverage 1150 has
been dispensed, and air has flowed into balloon 2045, causing
balloon 2045 to be partially inflated. Consequently, the volume of
air pocket 1165 is maintained or substantially maintained. An
equilibrium between the partial pressure of carbon dioxide in
beverage 1150 and the partial pressure of carbon dioxide in air
pocket 1165 is maintained or substantially maintained, and little
or no release of carbon dioxide from beverage 1150 occurs within
bottle 360.
[0112] FIG. 22 shows bottle 360 and stopper cap 2020 in accordance
with an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 22, an additional portion of
beverage 1150 has been dispensed, and more air has flowed into
balloon 2045, causing balloon 2045 to be further inflated.
Consequently, the volume of air pocket 1165 is maintained or
substantially maintained. An equilibrium between the partial
pressure of carbon dioxide in beverage 1150 and the partial
pressure of carbon dioxide in air pocket 1165 is maintained or
substantially maintained, and little or no release of carbon
dioxide from beverage 1150 occurs within bottle 360.
[0113] FIG. 23 shows a system for dispensing a carbonated beverage
in accordance with another embodiment. System 2300 may be adapted
to attach to and dispense a beverage from a single bottle, or from
multiple bottles. System 2300 comprises a compressed air reservoir
2330, a cap 2335 comprising a tube 2338 and an inflatable object
2340 attached to the tube. Compressed air reservoir may include a
manual pump or an automatic/powered air pressure system.
Alternatively, a powered compressed air providing device may be
used (without a reservoir). Cap 2335 is attached to a container
2375, such as a bottle, that contains a carbonated beverage. A
channel 2350, which may be a tube, for example, connects compressed
air reservoir 2330 and cap 2335. Cap 2335 also comprises a
dispensing mechanism 2390 for dispensing the beverage from
container 2375. In the illustrative embodiment, cap 2335 is placed
on container 2375 while container 2375 is upright, and system 2300
operates while container 2375 remains upright. A second tube 2392
coupled to dispensing mechanism 2390 allows dispensing mechanism
2390 to withdraw the beverage from bottle 2375. In a manner similar
to that described above, as the carbonated beverage is dispensed
from container 2375, compressed air flows from compressed air
reservoir 2330 through channel 2350, through cap 2335, and through
tube 2338 into inflatable object 2340, causing inflatable object
2340 to expand within container 2375. Due to the expansion of
inflatable object 2340, the volume of air within container 2375 is
maintained constant or substantially constant, thereby maintaining
equilibrium or substantial equilibrium between the partial pressure
of carbon dioxide in the air within the container 2375 and the
partial pressure of carbon dioxide within the carbonated beverage.
Consequently, release of carbon dioxide from the carbonated
beverage is prevented or minimized.
[0114] In other embodiments, a beverage dispensing and pressurizing
system may be structured differently than those described above.
For example, while a single balloon is used in the illustrative
embodiment, in other embodiments, a plurality of balloons may be
coupled to a stopper cap via a tube, and inserted into a beverage
container. In such an embodiment, the plurality of balloons may
expand as the beverage is dispensed from the container.
[0115] While the embodiments described above are discussed for use
with a soda or soft drink, the methods and systems described herein
may be used to pressurize and dispense containers that hold other
types of carbonated beverages, such as beer, champagne, etc.
[0116] The foregoing Detailed Description is to be understood as
being in every respect illustrative and exemplary, but not
restrictive, and the scope of the invention disclosed herein is not
to be determined from the Detailed Description, but rather from the
claims as interpreted according to the full breadth permitted by
the patent laws. It is to be understood that the embodiments shown
and described herein are only illustrative of the principles of the
present invention and that various modifications may be implemented
by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and
spirit of the invention. Those skilled in the art could implement
various other feature combinations without departing from the scope
and spirit of the invention.
* * * * *